The Denver Nuggets experienced a narrow 105-102 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers in Game 2 of the first round of playoff series despite manager David Adelman’s decision to play three MVP Nikola Jokic throughout the fourth quarter.
David Adelman recently explained the reasons behind his unexpected rotation choice, which deviated from the team’s original strategy.
“We started out with the fourth. I asked him how he felt. The first plan was to play in the first few minutes, the first two or three minutes.
“But we ran, and it was strong and it felt like we could give that group a lot.”
Unfortunately, this adjustment was expensive for the nugget. Nikola Djokic’s effectiveness declined significantly as the quarter progressed, committing three costly turnovers while filming only two-sixths from the field.
After pouring 10 points into the third quarter, Jokic only managed eight in the final frame as it appeared fatigue set.
Despite the disappointing results, the Serbian superstar brought in an even more incredible triple double performance, with 26 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists, from 43 minutes to 26 points.
The Nuggets were unable to overcome the Clipper, who ultimately surpassed 27-26 in the decisive quarter and became a key game for the series.
Alongside Jokic, Adelman deployed Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon throughout the fourth quarter. This is another massive decision that frowned upon.
“It was the same as Christian (Brown). I (putted him outside) later than I wanted, but the group was rolling a bit,” Adelman explained about adjusting his rotation.
“And then Mike (Porter Jr.) came in for Payton (Watson) and made an offensive impact.
Adelman emphasized his constant communication with the stars in those important minutes. “Obviously, communication with him continues.
“So it felt like that kind of game. Man, we didn’t want to take him out like we had the chance, they’re going for a 6-0 run,” the coach added, defending his decision-making process.
However, fourth quarter fatigue could force Adelman to rethink his rotation strategy as the former champion is trying to regain control of the series.
Especially after he didn’t call a timeout in the fourth quarter when the players seemed completely inefficient and out of sight by the Clippers.